a photo of nicole mclaughlin creating a floral pillow. The text reads "FP Upcycled: Make A DIY Pillow, With Nicole McLaughlin"

Don’t sleep on this fun project…or do!



If you’re not following Nicole McLaughlin, we advise you to stop what you’re doing and add her. You’re not likely to find someone who can inspire, entertain, and sometimes confuse you to quite the same degree she does. And we mean that in the absolute best way.

Among those qualities that make her work so incredible: she reuses/repurposes nearly EVERYthing, breathes a most clever and unique new life into said everything, and often puts her creations through a personal wear test if for no other reason to show that her designs provide both form and function. And let’s not forget fun.

Nicole was gracious enough to craft THREE exclusive DIY projects for you to recreate at home (and, to even give as gifts, if you decide to??)!. Today, we’re sharing with you her third and final DIY — a perfectly huggable pillow, made only from a pair of pants and fleece. The real beauty of these DIYs is that — you use what you got. If quilted pants (as shown) aren’t in your arsenal, challenge yourself to see what in your closet/dresser might work instead.

If you need inspiration, trust us — Nicole’s IG is ALWAYS a great place to start.

Nicole McLaughlin's Cozy Upcycled Pillow DIY

Step 1:

If you're looking to take a pair of pants and turn them into shorts and want to do something fun with the scraps, here's a quick project to turn them into pillows.

Step 2:

Take your pants and remove the desired length with a pair of fabric scissors.

Step 3:

Remove one leg at a time, using the first piece as a pattern to ensure that both legs are cut equally.

Step 4:

Second, turn one leg inside out to create a contrasting pillow option.

Step 5:

Fold, tuck, and pin down the cut edge on each leg to cover up any uneven or frayed edges. We want them to look tidy.

Step 6:

Sew the edges down on each side, while also sewing one side completely closed so it's ready to be stuffed.

Step 7:

Next, take your used fleece and cut off the sleeves and stuff each one into a pillow.

Step 8:

Once it's stuffed, secure the edges with some clips and then sew the end closed.

Once you're done, give your new pillow a fluff and a hug!

Watch Nicole Make Her DIY Pillow Below.

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